Evaluation of the Economic Feasibility of Geothermal Resources Along the Western Continental Margin of India

Abstract

The west coast of Maharashtra hosts a number of thermal springs which propagate through faults running parallel to the 500-600 Km coastline with temperatures ranging from 40 to 72 °C. The thermal gradients of 57°C/km and heat flow value in the range of 45 ± 10 mW/m2. A detailed estimation of chemical and isotopic composition of the thermal springs, estimated a reservoir temperature of 135-140oC. From a Geothermal direct use perspective, west coast geothermal provinces serves as a ready platform for developing Natural green houses, dehydration units for perishable food products, Aqua culture centers and Natural health spas, thus promoting the growth of secondary and tertiary industries along with its associated direct and indirect job. Geothermal development in Maharashtra should be divided into present, mid and long term developmental plans. With present development plans centered around direct uses which shall promote the concept of geothermal energy to the masses as well as create sustainable small to medium enterprise businesses. Mid and long term development plan should be centered around use of geothermal energy for generating cheap, clean and base power generation systems, beginning with drilling of ten to fifteen deep exploration along the identified locations. A detailed progress and process outlay shall succeed soon there after